ウィキペディア

Ikigai is a Japanese concept meaning "a reason for being" or "a reason to wake up in the morning." It represents the intersection of what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for, promoting a life of purpose and daily fulfillment. What is your Ikigai? **ATTENDANCE POLICY:** To keep this group running smoothly and ensure that spots are available for those who genuinely want to attend, please RSVP only if you are confident you can make it. If you RSVP “Yes” and do not attend without updating your RSVP in advance, you may be restricted from attending future events for a period of time. We understand that things come up. If you can no longer attend, simply update your RSVP as soon as possible so your spot can be offered to someone on the waitlist. Repeated no-shows will result in removal from the group. Thank you for respecting everyone’s time and helping us maintain a reliable and engaged community. **SUPPORT THINKERS AND DRINKERS:** Thinkers and Drinkers International is a registered 501(c)7 nonprofit organization. We work hard to create an organization that adds value to our communities while keeping membership free for all. If you find value in what we’re doing, please consider donating through Patreon: [https://www.patreon.com/thinkers](https://www.patreon.com/thinkers) **CONNECT:** Instagram: @ThinkersDrinkersInternational Facebook: [https://www.facebook.com/thinkersdrinkersinternational/](https://www.facebook.com/thinkersdrinkersinternational/) Podcast: [https://www.spreaker.com/user/thinkersdrinkersinternational](https://www.spreaker.com/user/thinkersdrinkersinternational) Email: [[ThinkersDrinkersInternational@gmail.com](mailto:ThinkersDrinkersInternational@gmail.com)]

How to Open our Heart to Life This series is based on a special practice known as the Four Immeasurables. These four – immeasurable love, immeasurable compassion, immeasurable joy and immeasurable equanimity – enable us to truly open our hearts to the people in our life and in our world. These practices and meditations encourage us to accept and transform all our relationships, even the difficult ones, with gratitude and appreciation. **REGISTRATION** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| Free for [Members](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/) [Pre-Register Here](https://meditation-dc.org/monday-evening-meditation/) Each class is available by drop in. Everyone is welcome to attend, no previous experience is required. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

## Details - Please read all below before you sign up **Cost:** Free **Court Type:** Outdoor Grass **Level:** BB/A **Transportation:** Parking will be right by the grass. **What to bring:** at least 3 bottles of water and a ball/net if you have one. **10 persons per net max** **Host's Philosophy on this event:** The purpose of this meetup is to create a fun and supportive environment where we can improve our skills, enjoy competitive games, and connect socially. While we do aim to play seriously and challenge ourselves, the focus is more on growth and enjoyment than simply winning at all costs. That’s why the title doesn’t include “competitive” or “social”—we want a healthy mix of both. We do expect a mindset geared toward learning and getting better over time. That said, this event isn’t intended for total beginners; an understanding of the game is expected so that everyone can contribute to meaningful and engaging matches. The host holds the right to remove you from the game if they believe that you are at a C level(absolute beginner). if you can't pass to the setter for example, you are a beginner. **Skill Level:** 1. **If you want to know your level, please see the link below:** [Smiley Social Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/edit) **YouTube:** The games may be recorded and uploaded to our channel here: Let the host know if you have an issue with this. [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/@mp02626) **ATTENDANCE:** **Player Selection:** Regulars > League Members > Your Vibe > Skills > \*Your Attendance Ratio > New Members \* If you have 3 attended events & 6 dropped for example, you may or may not be invited(until you change that ration). Anyone with a drop-off level of -.50 or lower. The host takes attendance very seriously. Please remove yourself from the event (if you can't make it) as early as possible to allow others to join. You will be marked as a ***no-show*** if you don't show up to the event. [Smiley Social Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg/edit) **Q&A** *-Bringing your dog or cat is welcome and encouraged.* *-* Can I come if I don't know how to play? \*No, you may not. The host does teach a beginner's volleyball class that you may attend on Saturdays. -Can I be late or leave early? *The host expects you to be there **on time** and leave on time. If you need to come late or leave early, please let the host know ahead of time.* -Can I come even if I am not on the going list? \*No, sorry -NO SMOKING (anything) **Smiley Social documents:** 1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg) 2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco) 3. [Volleyball Levels](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PojSi4qdlRsv1msCHhvpQ43iDc4FfzQwpWCc3kafVMY/)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "**I accept**" to be permitted on the hike. Join us for an approximately **7 mile hike** around **[Hains Point](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)** along the **[Tidal Basin](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/cherryblossom/trail-guides.htm) and over the [Memorial Bridge](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/memorialave.htm).** There is **no elevation** to speak of. Most of the hike is on **pavement.** **Description** The **[2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival](https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/)** in Washington, D.C. runs from **March 20** to **April 12** with **peak bloom** predicted between **March 29** and **April 5, 2026.** **[Hains Point](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)**, located at the **southern tip** of **[East Potomac Park](https://www.nps.gov/places/000/east-potomac-park-hains-point.htm)**, is a popular spot to see **Cherry Blossoms**, offering a **less crowded alternative** to the **Tidal Basin.** **It offers** a **4-mile loop trail** ideal for **walking** (and biking), is lined with **cherry trees** and as the point of **convergence** of the **Potomac River**, **Washington Channel** and **Anacostia River**, it provides a **panoramic view** of the area. Emerging from the **Haines point**, we will head along the **Tidal Basin** towards **Memorial Bridge** and then back to the **Marina.** **Facilities:** Columbia Island Marina and at Hains Point. **Where to meet?** We will begin at **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)** (Lady Byrd Johnson Park, GW Parkway, Arlington, VA; Note that the only entrance to the Marina is from the **GW Parkway Southbound.** GPS Coordinates: **[38.876366, -77.049883](https://maps.app.goo.gl/z4K5XxsS8KHsyF1A9)** **Arrival Time: Please arrive by 9 am so that we can get all checked in and leave on time at 9:30 am.** **What to bring?** **Bring:** Be sure and wear sturdy walking shoes; dress in layers; and have adequate hydration. We will stop for lunch/snack along the way. **Hiking Pace:** We will hike at a pace of 2.5-2.7 mph while moving. **You must have experience with hikes of this distance and pace.** **Elevation Gain**: N/A **Dogs** are **not** permitted on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cCe0_KteiZM6qiZMi1PZlgWBf_NBCFD0/view)** **Weather:** the weather for this location can be found **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8).** **Rehydration:** It might be fun to have a snack at **Island Time Bar/Grill** on the water at Columbia Island Marina upon completion of our hike **Leader:** Dawn Keeler 703 533 9231. I will be in a Honda Hatchback, with the hatchback open.

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week beginner\-level Quechua course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of Quechua? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** Quechua Foreigner with Julia Mondays from 7:00pm - 9:00pm ET Apr 6th to May 11th In-person, Farragut Square DC Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5B%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D)(%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)) "\[\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5B%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D)(%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)) "\[\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

Join us for an LGBTQIA+ D&D happy hour! Come unwind, roll some dice, and share adventures over drinks (alcoholic or otherwise)! Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just curious about the world of tabletop roleplay, it’s a space to connect, laugh, and celebrate community. Can't make it? Join the [DMV D&D Discord ](https://discord.gg/bDvGRtKfhR)to stay up to date on all the latest and greatest events!

Join us to enjoy the new southern & coastal Italian Capitano DC inside the Canopy Hotel at the Wharf! Just opened on March 6, Capitano promises a seasonal, ingredient driven menu which will bring the warmth of Italy to your heart (perhaps don't mention that to your cardiologist)! Fresh out of the box - there are not a lot of reviews readily available... so here's a sneak [peek! ](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=b2010e30be87c2d7&rlz=1C1MYPO_enUS1186US1186&sxsrf=ANbL-n7QF96KqINRyJzwSekLVm4IIhBMQw:1773939200381&udm=39&fbs=ADc_l-aN0CWEZBOHjofHoaMMDiKpmAsnXCN5UBx17opt8eaTX5MJRoosnbembaWTjeNSquJhopKzGFtXgl9coBQO6WPIzXQJ7xWrFSNJtPY_sN9P3Bp1JhQ8rhweG19BcJY7IX4dkk4-fK170qVf5whUF9Os5tDLUZoh7OWg-2aMM9vtkCP0U843gX20awUgkT5MJY8d_2jp7L7XBza0i01ayRbKIVkQ4A&q=capitano+dc+review&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwithJG_tqyTAxXwF1kFHTTzHI0Qs6gLegQIFBAB&cshid=1773939220667028&biw=1280&bih=551&dpr=1.5#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:29603d15,vid:ZPBrh9C_bhA,st:0) Let's check it out and see for ourselves! **Popville:** Capitano blends tradition with a touch of modern ease. It’s approachable, never fussy and where a plate of housemade pasta or the day’s crudo feels just as natural with a spritz at lunch as it does with a bottle of wine under the evening lights. The restaurant, which features open-air dining and views of the water (and maybe some cherry blossoms if we're lucky!), brings a fresh, approachable dining option to DC’s waterfront, as the concept takes over the restaurant space within the Canopy by Hilton at The Wharf. The interior is completely reimaged, with Capitano’s look and feel being inspired by the traditions, culture, and architecture of Southern Italy. Capitano’s bright colors and traditional textures of the Southern Italian region are infused with the modern forms and clean lines of more contemporary Italian furniture design. Floor-to-ceiling windows, weathered wood, ceramic tile accents and natural linens highlight the space. The result is a seamless journey that transports the guest from the hotel’s clean and refined public space to a quaint Italian Piazza. The Coast is calling - looking forward to sharing this experience with you! ***Check out the menus [here](https://www.capitanodc.com/menus/)*** We ask that ALL folks honor their RSVP. If you are unable to attend after sending in a YES, please update your status so that others may join. In the event our group incurs a fee for no-shows / late cancellations, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding. **WAITLIST:** Meetup does not allow a waitlist for paid events. If this event fills and you are interested in adding your name to the waitlist, please send host a message through the app. In the future, we will vary the days of the week and the types of restaurants so that we can attract many different types of diners. Feel free to make suggestions for future meet locations. All diners will pay their own tab. before departing the event. If you are unable to join us in April we hope you'll stay interested and join us for a meal in the future. Looking forward to catching up with you for a fantastic dinner at Capitano!

Michelle Waldman, founder of [Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary](https://rosiesfarmsanctuary.org/), will join [Pro-Animals DC](https://proanimaldc.org/) and the [Veg Society of DC](http://www.vsdc.org/) for a deeply personal talk about how heartbreak over animal suffering became the doorway to action. Michele is both the Founder of Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary and a licensed Psychotherapist. She shares how she transformed her grief into a vision for Rosie’s Farm Sanctuary. This talk will explore how grief became a blueprint for healing and real-world change, and how her vision became a reality. Coffee, bagels, and community will be provided! Feel free to bring any extra treats to share. Veg Society of DC is pairing up with Pro-Animals DC to offer occasional educational programs, so watch for more presentations. After registering here, please [register on their site](https://stampede.proanimal.org/event/1764634382939x246683721837576200) as well. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at all of our events. **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

The Sakura Matsuri-Japanese Street Festival is the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the United States. The matsuri boasts four stages of performances (including J-pop, traditional Japanese music and martial arts), alongside hundreds of cultural exhibitors and vendors with Japanese products and food! Click here for more information: [http://www.sakuramatsuri.org/](https://sakuramatsuri.org/) Tickets are $21.20. Click here to purchase: [https://sakuramatsuri.festivalpro.com/form/GjuVsDBdTjUqKJmkncda/0](https://sakuramatsuri.festivalpro.com/form/GjuVsDBdTjUqKJmkncda/0) **Please Note:** We are not the organizers of the festival. Geek Nite Out is a Meetup group that is attending the festival. **--MEETUP INFORMATION--** **MEETING:** We will start to gather outside the entrance at Pennsylvania Ave and 7th St. at 10:15 am. I will be wearing a Geek cap. We'll head into the festival when it opens. Don't worry if you miss us when we're outside the festival. Just message us on Discord when you arrive, and I will post our location along with a what3words link. Learn more about what3words: [https://youtu.be/DLG6WFx3XHQ?si=dRjkpGBNWkIBA1f5](https://youtu.be/DLG6WFx3XHQ?si=dRjkpGBNWkIBA1f5) A #sakuramatsuri channel will be created on the GNO Discord server on the day of the event. It's to be used to help everyone communicate and find the group. Don't post spoilers until after the event. You can join the Discord server here: [https://discord.gg/d4e9MKScVP](https://discord.gg/d4e9MKScVP)[ ](https://discord.gg/d4e9MKScVP)(link should be permanent. Please let me know if it stops working) **METRO:** The Street Festival is next to the Archives Metro Station, along the Green and Yellow Lines.

Capoeira (capo-way-ra) is an Afro-Brazilian martial art that is unlike any other martial art. Capoeira incorporates flowing movements with kicks, dodges, and some acrobatics. It is often mistaken for a dance for those reasons. Since it’s origins in the 17th century, it has evolved from a secret fighting practice into an art emphasizing self-expression and community celebration. It is great for the body and mind! In addition to gaining strength and flexibility in class, students learn about Brazilian culture, history, and language (Portuguese). On November 26, 2014 capoeira was granted a special protected status as "intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO. No need to have a Capoeira background to join this class, just an open mind to try out a new way to move! Beginners welcome. **Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com**. The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.** The address is 1322 Prince St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.

Greeting Nerdizens! Let's hang out and celebrate the spring with the emergence of the cherry blossoms! Japan-America Society of Washington DC's Sakura Matsuri - Japanese Street Festival is the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the United States and this year is their 64th anniversary. There will be live music and dance performances, food, vendors, cosplayers, and a large art and culture area. The event takes place over two days (April 11th and 12th) but this meetup is just for Sunday. It's being held between 7th St NW & 3rd St, Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004. The nearest metro train stops are Archives-Navy Memorial (Green/Yellow line) and south of Judiciary Square (Red line). There's additional information on the website below Right now, tickets are $20 until April 10th. They can be purchased at https://sakuramatsuri.org/ This is a large festival with plenty to do so if you want to venture off to view a particular performance or hangout elsewhere then feel free to explore. This meetup is open-ended so anyone can come and go as you please. I plan to arrive at Archives metro by 11:30am and will wait there until 12 which is when I/we will proceed to enter the festival. If you plan to arrive after 12 then make sure to comment and I will let you know where we are. Hope to see some of you then!

Spring only gives us the blossoms for a moment. We're making the most of it. Join us at The Cherry Blossom Pop Up, an afternoon among 50 vendors in a stunning cherry blossom setting that's equal parts beautiful, creative, and unforgettable. Explore artisan vendors, sit down for afternoon tea in the park, try your hand at a kimono workshop, admire pottery and art displays. After we've explored every corner we're heading somewhere nearby for drinks and light bites to close out a perfect spring afternoon the right way. 🌸 50+ vendors to explore 🍵 Afternoon tea in the park 👘 Kimono workshop 🏺 Pottery & art displays 🛍️ Artisan shopping 🥂 Drinks after 👯 Ladies only

Pay attention! We’re delaying a week for those of you who may be on Spring break and/or celebrating the holiday. Ok, no pancakes, but waffles-a-plenty. Join the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. Look for us upstairs!

Soccer + vegan deli eats = the perfect Saturday ⚽🌱🔥 We’re kicking things off with soccer (all levels welcome!) and then heading to Vida’s Plant-Based Butcher for some seriously good food—Vida’s Reubens, Philly cheesesteaks, Chipotle Cheddar Melt and classic deli sides. Whether you’re playing, socializing, or just here for the food, this is a great way to meet like-minded people and enjoy the day! Game → Food → Good vibes 📍 Soccer - Park of Roses 3923 N High St Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Vida’s Plant Based Butcher 1724 Northwest Blvd Unit C Columbus OH, 43212

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

Join us for pizza and conversation at Vick’s Gourmet Pizza! 🍕 Good slices, good stories, and plenty of laughs around the table. Come hungry, bring your best conversation, and let’s enjoy a relaxed evening with great company. Extra cheese and extra chatter encouraged! 😄

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

Join us again this Saturday for drinks and sweets at this delicious Vegan co-op bakery. Mingle with likeminded Columbus Vegans. We will aim to sit outside after purchasing items and hopefully taking in cooperative weather. Special note on parking: Please try to park along Acton, Richards and/or Chatham streets so as to free up the lot at the back of the building for pick-up orders. Thank you. 😊 Patty Cake offers everything from cupcakes, cookies, cakes, muffins, whoopie pies, as well as gluten free goodies. They also have coffee, oat milk and cold brew